Dermal Penetration Studies

Glass diffusion cells with clamps secure samples, featuring purple membranes, in a row, used for dermal penetration studies in a controlled laboratory setting.

Dermal Penetration Study Services

Dermal penetration studies provide the most relevant safety data for quantifying topical risk exposure via the skin. Our metabolism team has extensive experience with dermal penetration studies and delivers critical data to help gain regulatory approval and advance R&D programs for agrochemicals, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and chemicals.

Studies are conducted with both radiolabelled and non-radiolabelled compounds. The use of a radiolabel typically facilitates more rapid analysis, assessment of mass balance and skin-fraction penetration. We can integrate radiolabelled dermal studies with 14C and 3H radiosynthesis of your test compound(s).

Scientists in a lab working with specialized equipment, conducting environmental metabolism studies. Both wear protective lab coats and gloves.

Dermal Penetration

  • OECD 427 – Skin Absorption: in vivo Model
  • OECD 428 – Skin Absorption: in vitro Method
  • OECD Guidances (No. 28 and No. 156)
  • EFSA guidance on dermal absorption

Dermal Applications

  • Determination of dermal absorption values for risk assessment
  • Lead candidate selection for topical drug delivery
  • Individual or multiple compound comparator studies
A gloved hand pours a yellow liquid into a tube surrounded by lab glassware, used for dermal penetration studies of formulations.

Pharmaceutical Topical Formulations

  • Solids 
  • Liquids
  • Gels
  • Creams
  • Solvents
  • Patches

Agrochemical Formulations

  • Emulsifiable concentrate
  • Dispersible concentrate
  • Dusts
  • Suspension concentrate
  • Soluble (liquid) concentrate
  • Soluble powder
  • Wettable powder
  • Water-dispersible granules